Airport Communications Director, Sr

City of Atlanta, GA•Atlanta, GA

40d

About The Position

Reporting to the Airport Assistant General Manager, this role directs the Communications and Media Relations business units. This position is responsible for the day-to-day leadership and strategic direction of the Communications Division. The Senior Communications Director develops and executes comprehensive communication strategies that support the Airport's mission, vision, and strategic priorities. The role includes allocating and managing departmental resources, ensuring operational efficiency across public affairs, media relations, and community engagement units. The Director also plays a key role in shaping organizational policy, guiding the Airport's communication strategies, and contributing to the overall strategic planning process to strengthen stakeholder trust, transparency, and public confidence.

Requirements

Comprehensive knowledge of communications laws, public information regulations, and media policies, including open records, public affairs protocols, and crisis communication standards.
Extensive understanding of the aviation and transportation industry, including major stakeholders, passenger experience trends, airline partnerships, and community impact considerations.
Expert skill in strategic communication and stakeholder engagement, with the ability to effectively and professionally interact with elected officials, executive leadership, employees, media representatives, and the general public.
Proficiency in developing and interpreting complex communication materials, including media briefings, executive correspondence, public statements, and legislative documentation.
Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to assess communication challenges, evaluate alternative approaches, and recommend evidence-based strategies that advance organizational goals.
Ability to translate complex or technical information into clear, accessible language for diverse audiences through multiple communication channels.
Adept at interpreting and applying organizational policies, political dynamics, and community concerns to guide decision-making and maintain credibility.
Demonstrated ability to manage confidential or sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
Proficiency in digital communication tools, media monitoring platforms, and performance analytics to measure outreach effectiveness and refine messaging strategies.

Responsibilities

Directs and oversees the Communications Division, managing subordinate managers responsible for media relations, community engagement, and internal communications.
Develops and implements strategic communication plans to enhance the organization's reputation, transparency, and alignment with city and departmental objectives.
Oversees the preparation, editing, and distribution of key communication materials, including press releases, media advisories, executive statements, newsletters, and legislative briefings.
Ensures consistent messaging across all internal and external communication channels, including print, broadcast, social media, and digital platforms.
Reviews and approves public information materials to ensure compliance with organizational policies, brand standards, and regulatory requirements.
Manages crisis communications by developing proactive strategies and serving as a key spokesperson during emergencies or sensitive situations.
Coordinates with business units, tenants, airlines, and community partners to promote major initiatives, projects, and events.
Leads planning and execution of media events, press conferences, community forums, and stakeholder meetings to communicate strategic priorities and project milestones.
Oversees the collection, analysis, and presentation of communication metrics to evaluate performance, audience engagement, and campaign impact.
Drives performance, productivity, and accountability within the communications team through measurable, results-oriented metrics.
Ensures alignment between organizational goals, public communication efforts, and compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
Develops and maintains relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets to strengthen coverage and manage public perception.
Collaborates with City leadership and Airport executives to identify communication goals, key messages, and opportunities for storytelling.
Provides guidance, coaching, and mentoring to communications managers, specialists, and support staff to promote professional growth and excellence.
Establishes division-wide strategies, policies, and procedures for media relations, community engagement, and brand management.
Makes high-level communication decisions in response to emerging issues, ensuring the organization's image, credibility, and customer confidence are upheld.
Represents the organization at key public events, industry forums, and community meetings as the senior communications representative.
May perform other duties as assigned.